Cann 1760 - 1785

This Cann was made by Jonathan Otis, a silversmith active in Newport, Rhode Island, in the late 18th century. It's created from sheets of sterling silver, carefully hammered, soldered, and formed over a wooden stake, a traditional process passed down through generations. Note the planishing marks that give the surface its soft sheen, these are evidence of careful handwork. The design is simple, yet elegant, with a flared lip, a curved handle, and a molded foot. The weight and feel of the silver in the hand speak to the skill and labor required to transform raw materials into a functional object of beauty. Objects like this were not simply decorative; they reflected the owner's social standing. A silversmith's expertise was highly valued, and this cann represents a sophisticated level of craft. Seeing how a silversmith transforms a simple metal object into a work of art allows us to reconsider the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.